The Transfer Tavern

Derby must keep hold of Mount to maintain early season form

According to The Derby Telegraph, The Rams’ manager Frank Lampard has insisted that teenage sensation Mason Mount will not be returning to Chelsea in January.

The 19-year-old is on loan from the London club, but has been in outstanding form for Derby so far this season, creating fear amongst supporters that he may be returning to his parent club.

While Lampard has categorically stated that the England under-21 international will not be leaving, there is often no smoke without fire. As much as the former Chelsea player can say that the club are going to keep hold of Mount, he may be powerless if the club demand. This has happened in recent years when The Blues recalled Nathan Aké during his loan spell at Bournemouth.

Derby fans will be desperate to keep hold of the youngster, who has already amassed two goals and one assist in the opening six games of the season. The versatile playmaker will be vital if the club seek to continue their good early season form. Regardless of what formation Lampard has adopted so far this season, there has been a place for Mount, and that will continue for as long as he is in the team.

The Rams are currently fourth in the Championship table, and head to Rotherham this Saturday, hoping to continue applying pressure to early season leaders Leeds and Middlesbrough.

Mount has a very bright future ahead of him, and could well be the first academy player since John Terry to become a regular in the Chelsea first team, but as far as Derby are concerned, he must stay at Pride Park until May.